Bacon Jam Smash

1: In a small bowl, combine warm water, warm milk, yeast, and sugar. Mix, cover with plastic wrap, and set for 15 minutes until foamy.

2: Beat 1 egg and set aside. In a stand mixer, whisk flours with salt. Add butter and mix until it makes crumbs.

3: Add the yeast mixture and beaten egg. Mix until a dough forms.

4: Using the dough hook attachment, knead dough until smooth and elastic, about 10 minutes.

5: Shape dough into a ball and place back in the bowl. Cover with a damp towel and let rise until doubled in size, 1 to 1.5 hours.

6: Separate dough into 8 equal parts and gently roll into balls. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, 2 inches apart. Cover and let rise for 1 hour.

7: Fill a large baking pan with water and place on the oven floor. Preheat oven to 410°F.

8: Beat the remaining egg and brush the tops of the buns. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and bake for 15 minutes until golden brown, turning halfway through.

9: For the bacon jam, cut bacon into small pieces and cook over medium-high heat until crispy, about 10 minutes.

10: Reserve 1 tablespoon of bacon grease, add onions and cook for 10 minutes.

11: Season onions with salt and pepper, reduce heat, add half thyme and all garlic, and cook for another 5 minutes.

12: Stir in brown sugar, cooking until onions caramelize, about 20 minutes.

13: Add bacon and water, cooking for 5 minutes.

14: Add balsamic vinegar and remaining thyme, stirring until jam-like consistency, about 25-30 minutes.